For those who dream of life at sea, the story of S/V Bubbles is nothing short of legendary. Once the floating home of Alex Rust, the charismatic and daring sailor whose adventures captivated millions through the Chasing Bubbles documentary on YouTube, this unassuming vintage sailboat is now writing its next chapter – and you’re invited to be part of it.
The Story That Started It All
In 2008, Alex Rust was just a 20-something Midwest farm boy turned day trader with no sailing experience. Frustrated by the confines of his desk job, he decided to trade his corporate life for the boundless horizons of the ocean. Armed with little more than the guidebook Sailing for Dummies, Alex purchased S/V Bubbles, a modest but sturdy sailboat, and set off on an unforgettable four-year circumnavigation.
What made Alex’s story unique wasn’t just his lack of experience – it was his infectious spirit of adventure and his ability to connect with people. Over the course of his journey, Alex invited 139 different crew members from all walks of life to join him aboard Bubbles, showing that sailing wasn’t just about the destination but the connections forged along the way.
Alex’s adventures took him to remote corners of the globe, from the pristine lagoons of the Pacific to the bustling harbors of Southeast Asia. Along the way, he proved that you don’t need to be rich or experienced to live an extraordinary life – you just need the courage to take the first step.
Tragically, Alex’s journey was cut short in 2013 while he was traveling in India, but his spirit of adventure lives on through the Chasing Bubbles documentary, released in 2016. The film has since inspired countless dreamers to chase their own adventures, sparking a new wave of young cruisers who have fallen in love with the sailing lifestyle.
The Return of Bubbles
After completing her circumnavigation in 2012, S/V Bubbles passed through several owners, eventually falling into complete disrepair, with no mast and no sails. In 2021, she was rediscovered by the Chasing Bubbles Foundation. The foundation, created by Alex’s family and friends, was determined to honor Alex’s legacy by restoring Bubbles to her former glory and giving her a new mission.
On June 14, 2022 (Alex’s birthday), Bubbles officially returned to the foundation. What followed was a labor of love: an extensive restoration led by volunteers, fans, and generous donors. Every effort was made to ensure Bubbles is both comfortable and seaworthy while preserving her timeless vintage charm. The restoration included a new mast, rigging, sails, electrical systems, plumbing, an updated engine, and countless other upgrades. Yet, as with any classic vessel, there’s always a project or two waiting to be tackled, and those who come aboard are welcome to lend a hand, adding their own touch to her ongoing story, though this sort of volunteering is certainly not required.
Bubbles is not a luxury yacht but a practical, character-filled vessel that reflects the raw, unpolished charm of life at sea. She embodies the essence of simplicity and adventure. For those who step aboard, it’s an opportunity to embrace the journey and contribute to the legacy of a boat that has inspired so many.
Today, Bubbles has a renewed purpose: to inspire and empower the next generation. She serves as a platform for youth programs, teaching at-risk kids the skills and confidence to chase their dreams, and proudly operates as part of the Virgin Island Sailing School, an accredited member of the American Sailing Association (ASA).
Learn to Sail on a Legend
Through the Virgin Island Sailing School, aspiring sailors can now learn aboard S/V Bubbles while earning ASA certifications in the stunning waters of the Caribbean. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to advance your skills, ASA’s internationally recognized curriculum provides the perfect framework for mastering the art of sailing.
Founded in 1983, ASA has certified over half a million sailors worldwide, offering programs that range from Basic Keelboat to Offshore Passagemaking. By learning to sail with ASA, you’ll gain not only technical expertise but also a profound understanding of the responsibility that comes with navigating the water.
S/V Bubbles offers a unique opportunity to connect with the sailing lifestyle while becoming part of her storied legacy.
Your Chance to Be Part of the Story
S/V Bubbles is more than a sailboat; she’s a living piece of sailing history. Now, you have the opportunity to become part of her story:
- Book a Sailing Course: Whether you dream of skippering your own boat or simply want to crew with confidence, learning aboard Bubbles with the Virgin Island Sailing School will guide you every step of the way. Plus, proceeds from bookings go directly toward funding youth programs that get at-risk kids out on the water, helping them build confidence and discover the power of chasing their dreams.
- Donate to Empower Kids: Not ready to book? You can still make a difference! Your donation directly supports our mission to inspire and empower kids through sailing, giving them the confidence to chase their dreams. Every contribution, big or small, helps us keep the spirit of adventure alive.
- Join the “Chasing” Bubbles Regatta: Each year, the foundation hosts a thrilling regatta in the British Virgin Islands, inviting sailors of all skill levels to chase Bubbles through a pursuit race while supporting a great cause.
Keep the Spirit of Adventure Alive
Alex believed that life is a gift meant to be shared, explored, and celebrated. By supporting the Chasing Bubbles Foundation, you’re not just keeping his dream alive – you’re helping to inspire a new generation of adventurers to find their own path.
S/V Bubbles is back, and her journey is far from over. With the American Sailing Association guiding the way, the opportunity to learn, explore, and give back has never been more exciting.
Will you be part of the next chapter?
Visit chasingbubbles.org to book your adventure or make a donation.
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